Panasonic Details Line, Bows Recycling Venture
by Greg Scoblete -- TWICE, 1/28/2008
LAS VEGAS — Panasonic debuted a wireless HD A/V transmission technology, a 32GB SDHC memory card, and announced the creation of an independent company with Toshiba and Sharp for CE recycling during its International CES press event, here.
The new wireless high-def technology was developed in partnership with SiBeam and is based on the Wireless HD standard. It transmits uncompressed HD video between a TV and A/V equipment. According to Panasonic, the system uses a 60GHz band millimeter wave radio for a cable-free home theatre set up. It supports Panasonic's new VIERA Link feature (formerly EZ Sync).
In flat panel, Panasonic's expanded 2008 HDTV lineup will include 16 plasma televisions, 14 of which will be 1080p models and four of which will be THX certified, said Shiro Kitajima, president. (See TWICE, p. 8, Jan. 7, 2008.)
Kitajima also pulled the wraps off of a forthcoming 32GB SDHC memory card. Due in the spring, the card will feature a Class 6 speed rating and will be capable of storing 5.5 hours of 1080p HD footage.
Panasonic's chairman Yoshi Yamada announced the formation of a joint venture with Sharp and Toshiba called Electronic Manufacturers Recycling Management company (MRM) designed to manage collection and recycling programs in the United States. MRM will provide a recycling service to electronics manufacturers and others, including state and local governments.
MRM's first activities are focused on providing cost-effective services to manufacturers who must satisfy the recently enacted requirements in Minnesota for the recycling of used electronic products.
In addition to planning for recycling programs in several states from late 2008 or 2009, including Connecticut, North Carolina, Oregon, Texas and Washington, MRM is also positioned to offer recycling services as needed in other states or on a national scale. Going forward MRM anticipates working with concerned stakeholders to develop a viable, long-term national solution.
MRM has already entered into collection and recycling agreements with Hitachi Electronics, JVC, Mitsubishi, Philips, Pioneer, Sanyo and Olevia-brand maker Syntax-Brillian, "and looks forward to working with other manufacturers going forward." — Additional reporting by Steve Smith
